SmartMoney recently released an article titled "Retire Here, Not There", which showcased several affordable cities for retirement. This year however, they added an additional twist by accounting for the top ranked cities unemployment rate. According to SmartMoney, the average retiree is $30,000 short of their savings goal and may have a need for employment, even if just part time. The 2011 winners were selected on a range of criteria from unemployment rate to median home prices and cost of living.
| Rank | Location | Cost of Living (Comp to National Avg) | State Tax | Median Home Price | Unemployment Rate |
| 1 | Santa Fe, NM |
17.9% Higher | 1.7-4.9% | $225,852 | 5.3% |
| 2 | Lincoln, NE |
6.7% Lower | 2.56-6.84% | $135,200 | 3.6% |
| 3 | Manhattan, KS |
8.9% Lower | 3.5-6.45% | $152,200 | 5.9% |
| 4 | Portland, ME |
10% Higher | 2-8.5% | $179,500 | 5.2% |
| 5 | Santa Maria, CA |
20% Higher | 1-9.3% | $230,900 | 8.8% |
| 6 | Jupiter, FL |
21.3% Higher | None | $238,200 | 8.2% |
| 7 | Ithaca, NY |
30% Lower | 4-9% | $189,100 | 5.8% |
If your one of the many Americans' who will need to retire on a budget then you should also consider moving labor when the time comes to make your move. By hiring moving labor and one a self moving transportation option you can save up to 60% on your overall move. The days of hiring a full service vanline are long gone, save your money and hire moving labor instead.
